Saudi Arabian operations for Mondelēz name Ziad Abla as managing director
Ziad Abla has been confirmed as Mondelez International's new MD for Saudi Arabia. Pic: Mondelez
A major appointment has been confirmed by Mondelēz International, naming Ziad Abla as managing director of its Arabian division, as the business seeks to drive its presence in the region, reports Neill Barston.
The US-headquartered business is present in a total of 10 countries within the Middle East, which has been identified as an area of significant growth potential for its international operations.
Notably, the UAE has seen significant growth in confectionery and snacking markets, bolstered by a young demographic eager to engage with new food trends, with chocolate and wider confectionery segments proving popular across the broader category.
For its part, Mondelez also has offices in neighbouring Saudi Arabai, which established a base in the kingdom more than six years ago, with the company importing products to the country for the past three decades.
On a personal level, Abla has gained over 25 years working within the Middle East, Africa, Turkiye and emerging markets. As the company noted, he brings a proven track record in assisting with accelerating growth, as well as strengthening commercial performance. His appointment marks a strategic step in advancing Mondelēz’s ambition in Saudi Arabia.
In his new role, Ziad will lead the company in the Kingdom, setting a clear vision and strategy, driving category expansion, deepening partnerships, and strengthening organizational capabilities in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 transformation.
Furthermore, as the business added, he will also oversee supply chain performance to ensure agility, reliability, and excellence across the value chain—supporting market demand, customer and consumer expectations, and the company’s long-term growth ambition.
Before taking on the Saudi market, Ziad Abla served as Managing Director for the Gulf & Developing Markets (GDM), where he repositioned the business as a growth engine, delivering strong double-digit performance, market share gains, and accelerated digital commerce.
Aligned with national priorities, Ziad will continue advancing Mondelēz Arabia’s efforts in Saudi talent development, governance, and long-term sustainability. His leadership experience in operational excellence, renewable energy initiatives, and culture-building will further strengthen the company’s contribution to the Kingdom’s economic and social objectives.
Ziad Abla commented on his appointment. He said: “Saudi Arabia is a market of immense opportunity, and I am honored to lead Mondelēz Arabia at such a pivotal time. We will continue to invest in local talent, deepen partnerships, and drive sustainable growth aligned with the Kingdom’s broader transformation.”
